Dr. Etumudon Ndidi Asien, a lecturer from the Faculty of Management Science, Federal University Otuoke, Bayelsa State, has accused the institution’s Vice Chancellor (VC), Seth Accra Jaja, and two others of victimization and fraudulent practices.
Asien expressed his displeasure over his removal as the Head of Department (HOD), Banking and Finance and the denial of his mandatory promotion as stated in the institution’s review exercise.
In a suit numbered NICN\YEN\32\2019, Asien accused the VC of illegal recruitment and promotion of two lecturers without due process, stressing that the VC deliberately punished him for his lack of interest in the institution’s chapter of Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
According to Asien, the two lecturers appointed to occupy the office he was due for, had questionable character which has caused a major setback for his professional growth. He noted that despite several actions and complaints, the institution maintained its acts of discrimination and fraudulent practice. “If no action is taken, this fraud and injustice will continue to impede my growth in the service,” he said.
He revealed that the decision to join ASUU was optional, hence he called on National Industrial Court (NIC) to protect his right and save him from any form of victimization from the VC. He however hoped the court would order his return as the HOD, Banking and Finance, Faculty of the Management Sciences of the Institution.
The presiding Judge NIC, Justice Bashar. A. Alkali, after listening to the arguments of the two counsels asked that they go for an out-of-court settlement, stressing that failure to settle will result into the commencement of hearing on the substantive suit. He therefore adjourned the hearing till October 9.
